For many of us, carving out time and energy to engage in a hobby seems like just one more thing we don’t have time to do. Work, school, family, church, and community obligations can be overwhelming, leaving little room for doing the things we enjoy. But what if your hobby was more important than you realized? What if the world needs you and your hobbies?
Hobbies are so much more than just something to do when you have free time. Hobbies take us out of our everyday experience and give us a chance to do something we love and are passionate about. It can be a mental escape, help us develop a skill, or just provide an opportunity to socialize with others. Hobbies are a great way to disconnect from work and break away from the monotony of daily schedules. Also, even though it may seem daunting to add ONE MORE THING to your to-do list, having a hobby has been shown to be a stress reliever. And most importantly, your hobbies can and should bless the lives of others.
President Russell M. Nelson taught, “A good hobby can dispel heartache and give zest to life.” I believe that’s true not only for yourself, but for others.
Your hobbies can enlarge your circle of influence.
What do you enjoy doing that you could involve or teach to others? Music lessons can lead to a calling as a sacrament meeting organist. Cooking or baking skills allow you to brighten anyone’s day with a delicious treat. And those sewing skills you learned will serve you—and those you care for—throughout life.
Even those hobbies you do all by yourself can become great conversation starters when meeting new people. “Hi, I’m Becky, and I refurnish vintage chairs.” Let the questions commence! (But not really because I made that up.)
President Henry B. Eyring of the First Presidency has developed many skills and hobbies over the years. One such hobby is painting. He shares this talent with others in a unique form of service. Elder Robert D. Hales once wrote, “On occasion [President Eyring] will send a thank-you note or a watercolor painting as a remembrance.” Can you imagine receiving such a treasure? Your own hobbies and skills can similarly bless others in unique ways.
I encourage you to choose one of your hobbies – even if you don’t think it can bless others – and find a way to share it. I believe that’s what we are meant to do with them so I know you will find a way. If you do, please come tell me about it here or on my Instagram page and I’ll be sharing mine! The world needs your voice, your hobbies, and your spiritual gifts!
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One Response
I take photos on my property and make cards with some and love sending them off to brighten someone’s day and I have written two books including lots of photos. One of them is a children’s photobook about baby geese growing up on the property and I got a lady who speaks Chinese to do a simplified Chinese to match the English with the hope it will help children learn another language.